Trigger Finger Release

Trigger Finger Release

If your finger or thumb gets stuck in a bent position and suddenly snaps straight with a painful click, you may be experiencing trigger finger. This common condition can interfere with daily tasks like typing, gripping objects, or performing work-related activities. While many patients find relief with conservative treatments such as steroid injections or splints, persistent cases may require trigger finger release surgery to restore smooth, pain-free movement.

At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, our specialists provide advanced, outpatient trigger finger release procedures that help patients regain normal finger function safely and effectively.

What is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger, medically known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the tendons controlling finger and thumb movement. Normally, these tendons glide smoothly through a fibrous tunnel called the tendon sheath, allowing your fingers to bend and straighten freely.

When the tendon sheath becomes inflamed or thickened, it narrows the tunnel, causing the tendon to catch. This leads to the characteristic snapping, clicking, or locking of the finger or thumb, often accompanied by pain, stiffness, or swelling at the base of the digit.

Trigger finger can affect one or multiple fingers, and symptoms may be mild at first but often worsen over time. Common signs include:

• Finger locking in a bent position
• Pain or tenderness at the base of the finger
• A popping or clicking sensation when straightening the finger
• Morning stiffness or discomfort after inactivity

Trigger finger can occur in people of all ages but is more common in individuals with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or jobs that require repetitive gripping and finger movements.

What is Trigger Finger Release Surgery?

Trigger finger release surgery is designed to free the flexor tendon from restrictions caused by a thickened or inflamed tendon sheath. During normal movement, your flexor tendon glides smoothly through a fibrous tunnel. When the tunnel narrows, the tendon can catch, causing painful snapping, locking, or stiffness.

The surgery involves cutting the A1 pulley to relieve pressure on the tendon, allowing it to move freely again. This outpatient procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and most patients go home the same day.

Types of Trigger Finger Release Procedures

Open Trigger Finger Release

• Traditional approach with a small incision at the base of the finger.
• Direct visualization allows precise release of the A1 pulley.
• Minimizes the risk of nerve or artery damage.
• Slight palm scar typically heals well and becomes barely noticeable.

Percutaneous Trigger Finger Release

• Minimally invasive technique using a needle to release the pulley.
• No visible scar and faster cosmetic recovery.
• Requires specialized expertise and may not be suitable for complex cases.
• Slightly higher risk of nerve or artery complications compared with open release.

Trigger finger release surgery typically takes 15-30 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia, with sedation available for anxious patients. During the procedure, the surgeon either makes a small incision (open release) or uses a needle (percutaneous release) to release the constricted tissue, testing finger movement to ensure full freedom. After surgery, a protective dressing is applied, and patients usually go home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions.

Recovery

Recovery after trigger finger release surgery begins with keeping the hand elevated and protected for 2-3 days. Mild soreness, swelling, or stiffness is normal, and gentle exercises for the fingers, elbow, and shoulder are encouraged from day one.

Most patients can resume light activities like writing or typing within a few days, drive after 3-5 days, and return to office or light manual work within a week. Full recovery and finger movement typically return within 2 weeks, though gradual improvement may continue for several months. Hand therapy may be recommended for persistent stiffness or more complex cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics

At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, we specialize in hand and upper extremity care, providing:

• Personalized, patient-focused treatment plans
• Advanced surgical techniques with rapid recovery
• Experienced surgeons skilled in both open and percutaneous release
• Comprehensive post-operative support and hand therapy guidance

We prioritize safety, precision, and long-term outcomes to help you return to your normal activities quickly and confidently.

Schedule a Consultation

If trigger finger is affecting your quality of life, contact Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics today to speak with a hand specialist. Our team will evaluate your condition, discuss treatment options, and create a plan tailored to your needs for a fast, safe recovery.